Olivia Frankl
Iowa City
Summary
Dedicated biochemistry student with a strong foundation in physiology and neuroscience research. Committed to advancing pediatric medicine and neurology through hands-on research and teaching experiences. Skilled in analytical thinking, communication, and empathy, with a goal of pursuing an MD-PhD to integrate clinical care and translational research in neurological disorders.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Teaching Assisntant
University of Iowa- Human Physiology Department
Iowa City
01.2026 - Current
- Discussion Leadership & Group Learning: Aid in discussion sessions, guided collaborative problem-solving, and reinforced key physiological concepts
- Student Engagement & Support: Encouraged participation, clarified complex material, and fostered a supportive learning environment
- Communication & Mentorship: Explained concepts across learning styles while building connections with students
Undergraduate Research Assistant – Neurology
University of Iowa – Department of Neurology
Dow City
03.2025 - Current
- Advanced Research in Neural Circuitry: Investigated astrocyte signaling and cholinergic neuronal dynamics as parallel regulators of cortical circuitry in Alzheimer’s disease models to enhance understanding of disease mechanisms.
- Technical Expertise in Neuroscience Methods: Utilized stereotaxic surgery alongside fiber photometry and optogenetics for precise manipulation and monitoring of targeted cell populations, contributing to advancements in neurophysiological research.
- Molecular Validation & Experimental Rigor: Ensured cellular specificity and protein expression through immunohistochemistry (IHC), optimizing antigen retrieval and fluorescence microscopy techniques to enhance experimental accuracy.
- Quantitative Data Analysis & Interpretation: Performed quantitative fluorescence analysis to characterize the contributions of astrocytes and cholinergic neurons to network modulation.
Online Science Tutor
Varsity Tutors LLC And Self Employed
Remote
02.2025 - 12.2025
- Individualized Instruction & Mentorship: Provided one-on-one tutoring in biology, chemistry, and physics for middle school, high school, and college students, adapting teaching strategies to diverse learning styles.
- Complex Concept Simplification: Translated challenging scientific concepts into clear, structured explanations using analogies and problem-solving frameworks.
- Student Performance & Confidence Development: Strengthened students’ critical thinking, academic performance, and confidence through consistent engagement and feedback.
- Communication & Teaching Skills: Developed strong communication and instructional skills applicable to patient education and future clinical practice.
Retail Sales Associate
Dillards Department Store
Coralville
10.2023 - 12.2024
- Customer Service & Communication: Delivered personalized customer service by assessing needs, providing product recommendations, and building rapport with a diverse customer base.
- Professionalism in Fast-Paced Environment: Managed multiple responsibilities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and efficiency in a high-traffic retail setting.
- Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Handled customer concerns, returns, and transactions with professionalism and effective problem-solving.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Worked collaboratively with team members to maintain store operations, organization, and a positive customer experience.
Childcare Provider
YMCA, Algona Iowa
Algona
05.2019 - 08.2023
- Supervised and engaged children in structured activities that fostered social, emotional, and cognitive development across various age groups.
- Managed group dynamics and ensured safety while maintaining a structured environment in a fast-paced childcare setting.
- Developed effective communication strategies to address behavioral needs and promote positive interactions among children.
- Foundations for Pediatric Care: Gained early experience working closely with children, reinforcing my interest in pediatrics and patient-centered care.
Education
High School Diploma -
Algona Community School District
Algona, IA05-2022
Bachelor of Arts - Biochemistry And Molecular Biology, PreMD (PhD)
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA04-2026
Skills
- Neuroscience research
- Data analysis
- Science tutoring
- Patient communication
- Peer mentoring
- Problem-solving skills
- Time management
Timeline
Teaching Assisntant
University of Iowa- Human Physiology Department
01.2026 - Current
Undergraduate Research Assistant – Neurology
University of Iowa – Department of Neurology
03.2025 - Current
Online Science Tutor
Varsity Tutors LLC And Self Employed
02.2025 - 12.2025
Retail Sales Associate
Dillards Department Store
10.2023 - 12.2024
Childcare Provider
YMCA, Algona Iowa
05.2019 - 08.2023
High School Diploma -
Algona Community School District
Bachelor of Arts - Biochemistry And Molecular Biology, PreMD (PhD)
University of Iowa